Kawasaki KDX125SR Owner Review
Introducing a passionate story of "Taka" who rides KDX125SR, from Webike Community's "My Beloved Moto" campaign.
He shared his review of the KDX125SR including the advantage and the disadvantage, which he understands well because he is the owner.
Brief self-introduction
30 years of motorcycle experience
How I usually enjoy my motorcycle? I used to ride the KDX125SR only once a year for forest road touring. These days, I go with my kids to their motocross practice and follow them from behind on this motorcycle.
How long I've been riding this motorcycle?
I've been riding it since December 2011 up to now.
Motive for purchase
I wanted to go forest road touring, but I was very cautious about borrowing other people's motorcycles, so I bought this motorcycle at a price of 48,000 yen, which I could not spare even if it broke. This motorcycle was also in shambles, so it cost me about 50,000 yen in the end for repairs.
Satisfaction
It's a full-size motorcycle, so it won't turn into a circus bear even when I'm 6'4", and it has 2-stroke variable valves (KIPS), so it accelerates hard when you give it full throttle. Wheel and axle parts from the higher-end KDX series can be used on this motorcycle. Dropping one of the front sprockets will allow you to climb uphill on forest roads and in the mountains.
At any rate, the motorcycle is sturdy and will not break much. When it does break, it's only because the mirror and meter bracket is cracked. There is still a supply of OEM parts from Kawasaki, so I can still maintain the motorcycle. I can use motocross tires, so I can ride on closed courses.
Dissatisfaction
Fuel efficiency is poor. I'm not sure I can travel150km with a full tank. In the countryside, if you can't find a gas station, you'll be at a loss for gas. I need to refuel early.
There is a lot of white smoke at full throttle. Oil splatter and oil dripping from the muffler end is terrible. The OEM silencer has a drain hose for oil removal.
The front brakes don't work very well, it's scary to drive around town unless you divert the calipers from KX85 or Sherpa. Even after the replacement, I keep more distance between vehicles.
The footing is very poor, and even at 6'4", I can only get both toes on the ground. The front suspension dampers are only on one side, so if you jump a little on the track, you'll have to endure a strong impact.
Summary
I would recommend it to riders who are about 6'3" tall and are too small to ride the current 125cc model. The family motorcycle special agreement allows for lower maintenance costs, so even if you only ride in the woods a few times a year, there are enough advantages to own one.
As long as you carry a fuel bottle, you can handle the touring in the woods with ease, so if you have the opportunity to get one, try riding it.
Thank you, Taka, for sharing your beloved KDX125SR with us!
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